If it’s your first visit to Smokey Barrels in Birmingham, the menu can throw up one genuine dilemma: do you go for a classic curry or dive into the mixed grill? Both are core to what we do, and neither is the “safe” choice – they’re just different nights out. Here’s how to decide.

The Case for Curry

Our curries are built the traditional way – slow-cooked spice blends, fresh ingredients, and techniques passed down through generations of Indian cooking, using the same tandoor-based cooking methods found across the subcontinent. This is the menu for anyone who wants an authentic, warming plate of food, whether that’s a Sunday night in or a proper sit-down dinner with family.

Popular picks include Chicken Korma for those who want flavour without heat, and Lamb Rogan Josh for guests who like a bit more depth and spice. Everything on the curry side is designed to cover the full spectrum, from mild and creamy to properly fiery, so it works whether you’re bringing spice-averse relatives or your hottest-curry-wins mates.

The Case for Mixed Grill

The mixed grill is a different experience entirely. Everything comes off our in-house hickory smoker – think succulent ribs, monster burgers, and rib-eye steaks, alongside classic tandoori mixed grill elements. It’s the choice for anyone who wants a big, shareable, smoky plate rather than a rich sauce-based dish.

Our Mega Mixed Grill is the standout here, and it’s built for groups or anyone with a serious appetite. If you’re coming in for a birthday, a stag or hen do, or just a proper night out with friends, this is usually the table’s centrepiece.

Can’t Decide? Try a Smokey Special

If you genuinely can’t choose, that’s exactly why the Smokey Specials exist – a mix of curry and grill elements on one plate, so you get a taste of both styles without committing to just one. It’s the go-to recommendation we give most first-timers. You can see the full range on our food menu.

A Few Practical Tips for Your First Visit

Coming as a group: The mixed grill sizzlers are built to share, so if there are four or more of you, mixing a couple of grill platters with a couple of curries down the middle of the table works well. If you’re planning a larger celebration, take a look at our private event hire options for groups of 70 to 150.

Watching the match: If you’re in for live sport, curries tend to be easier to eat one-handed while keeping an eye on the screen, but plenty of regulars will tell you a plate of ribs and a pint from our drinks menu is just as good matchday food.

Spice levels: Don’t assume “Indian restaurant” means “hot restaurant” by default. Ask your server – dishes range from mild to seriously spicy, and staff are happy to steer you based on what you’re used to.

Big appetite or big group: The Mega Mixed Grill is designed for sharing, so it’s worth going in expecting a proper feast rather than an individual portion.

Visit Smokey Barrels

Smokey Barrels is located at 1741 Coventry Road, Birmingham, B26 1DS, around 30 minutes from the city centre, with a Premier Inn right next door – handy if you’re staying over after a match or a night out. Whether you land on curry, mixed grill, or a Smokey Special, you’ll be doing it with the game on in the background and a cold drink in hand.

Ready to try it for yourself? Book a table at Smokey Barrels and find out which side of the menu wins you over.